Montclair State University United States

Counseling (MA): Student Affairs/Counseling in Higher Ed Concentration

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Semesters
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Counseling (MA): Student Affairs/Counseling in Higher Ed Concentration at Montclair State University is designed for aspiring counselors seeking to make a significant impact within university settings. You will explore the critical roles of student affairs professionals, focusing on developmental theory, ethical practice, and effective counseling techniques tailored for higher education environments. This postgraduate program equips you with the specialized knowledge and skills to support student success, address complex challenges, and foster inclusive campus communities. If you are passionate about guiding students through their academic journey and contributing to a positive university experience, this Master of Arts degree is your pathway forward.

This full-time, on-campus Master of Arts program is structured over four semesters, providing a comprehensive curriculum that balances core counseling principles with specialized concentration coursework. You will engage in practical learning experiences, including a required practicum and an internship, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge under expert supervision. Key areas of study include appraisal, multicultural counseling, career counseling, and student development theories, alongside practical skills in program planning and leadership. You will graduate prepared for roles in student affairs, counseling centers, and student support services, equipped with the essential competencies for a rewarding career in higher education.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Arts in Counseling program with a concentration in Student Affairs/Counseling in Higher Education prepares students for professional roles within university settings. The curriculum covers core counseling principles, ethical considerations, and research methods, alongside specialized coursework in student services, college student development, and leadership within higher education. Students will gain practical experience through practicum and internship placements, culminating in a comprehensive examination to demonstrate mastery of the field.

1 Core Courses

Introduction to Professional and Ethical Issues in Counseling
Appraisal of the Individual
Career Counseling
Counseling Techniques
Multicultural Counseling and Development
Methods of Research

2 Practicum

Counseling Practicum

3 Concentration Requirements and Electives

Student Services in Higher Education
Theories of College Student Development
Program Planning and Development in Educational Settings
Leadership and Supervision in Student Affairs
Introduction to Substance Abuse Counseling
Dynamics of Group Process
Special Topics in Counseling
Gender Issues in Counseling
Program Planning and Development in Educational Settings
Supervisory Skills for Education and Training Personnel
Ethical and Legal Issues for Education and Training Personnel
Leadership and Supervision in Student Affairs
Special Topics in Administration and Supervision

4 Internship

Internship in Counseling I

5 Comprehensive Examination

Comprehensive Examination

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,886.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,886.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 59,772.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 800.00 - USD 3,500.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on West Palm Beach Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Clinical & Medical ServicesCorporate Training & DevelopmentHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare ConsultingHigher Education & UniversitiesMedical Devices & DiagnosticsMental Health & CounselingNursing & Allied HealthPharmacovigilance & Drug SafetyRegulatory Affairs & Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

CVS Health

Hackensack Meridian Health

Southern New Hampshire University

Why Study Counseling (MA): Student Affairs/Counseling in Higher Ed Concentration at Montclair State University

What makes this program stand out

Very Fast Application response time

Montclair State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Montclair State University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Counseling (MA): Student Affairs/Counseling in Higher Ed Concentration at Montclair State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. On-campus work is permitted directly.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English test requirements, you can submit scores from Duolingo, TOEFL, or PTE. Minimum scores include a Duolingo overall score of 105 or a TOEFL overall score of 83.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include school counselor, academic advisor, career counselor, mental health counselor, and student affairs administrator.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course explores human development throughout the lifespan and developmental psychopathology. Key topics include theoretical models of psychological, social, and spiritual development related to counseling.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Counseling (MA) program has an intake month in September. Be sure to prepare your application materials ahead of this date.
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